Moving Cities? London Short-Term Living Options

Are you moving to London anytime soon? Corporate relocations have gone up exponentially in the last few years, particularly after the pandemic.

More companies are relocating skilled talent to work on crucial projects, build teams, set up systems, and even spearhead global expansion drives. This has led to a spate of permanent, long-term, or temporary relocations to leading European cities like London.

Corporate relocation in London is going up steadily, backed by robust global demand. There’s been an increase of 53% in work-related visas over the last 5-6 years, while 76% growth in office expansion space is another key drive. 

To cite an instance, net office expansion in Central London alone touched a whopping 3.27 million in 2024, which was the highest-ever since 2019, and the figures have only gone up since.

Multiple businesses are investing in London, including several from emerging economies like India. London still retains its appeal for relocation, being among the global top three in this case, favored for the Time Zone, strong legal framework, and seamless access via FTAs to leading US/European markets.

The city has a skilled workforce and significant sectoral growth in Fintech, AI, and professional services, while top-notch office space and infrastructure are other drivers.

There’s also increasing availability of accommodation for those moving to stay in London in recent years. These are all factors that have boosted the UK capital’s appeal for global relocation.

Let’s look at some of the best short-term living options in the city if you’re moving here anytime soon and want accommodation to settle in before you think of a permanent home. 

Top Short-Term Accommodation Choices in London 

When it comes to short-term living in London, there are several accommodation choices at hand. It majorly depends on the length of your stay in the city and of course, the type of accommodation you basically need.

For those relocating to the city, London has flexible short-term furnished housing solutions available, including serviced apartments in London and other tailored corporate housing like aparthotels from reliable brands. You will find them in several parts of London with hotel-like amenities and home-like space and comfort for an easy transition to living in the city. 

Many other companies and brands offer tailored corporate housing for the short-term with full furnishing and all-inclusive rates, the same as serviced apartments.

Short-term lets are also available, although tenures may be strictly restricted to 90 days a year, which is one limitation of opting for these. Unfurnished or regular rentals may also be available, although you’ll have to arrange everything from furnishings (buying/renting) to utilities and other essentials.

Then there are business hotels across price points, although they are costlier choices for extended trips and may not be viable for companies. Also, they do not have flexible leases, ample space, and inclusive add-ons. You’ll have to choose from these accommodation types depending on your specific needs. 

Choosing Specialised Short-Term Rentals in London 

When it comes to short-term living in London, you can consider choosing specialised accommodation options like serviced apartments. When you book serviced apartments in London, there’s always the guarantee of abundant space (more than any hotel) and privacy, along with flexible (and often extendable) leases.

Stay on a month-to-month basis or for several months at a time (or more), depending on your needs. There’s no rigid stricture to worry about in this case. Companies also find apartments more cost-effective, since they mostly have all-inclusive and competitive rates that cover utilities, Wi-Fi, and other services. You can also cook meals in well-equipped kitchens with all necessary appliances (which also helps you save money on dining out each day). 

The apartments are tailored for maximum productivity, wellbeing, and work-life balance, with features like outdoor areas, plush furnishings, separate living and sleeping areas, flat-screen televisions, work desks, reliable Wi-Fi, services like housekeeping and laundry, and even on-site concierge/reception facilities.

Work, play, entertain, explore and settle into London right away after landing at the airport. The sheer space and home-like comfort are enough to ease the transition and you can think of a permanent home later if your shift is permanent.

You’ll also find apartments in convenient and prime locations near business/commercial hubs, transportation links, and recreational amenities. You can also enjoy peace of mind with 24/7 security and round-the-clock support throughout your stay. They are complete solutions for companies and employees alike, helping you move in completely hassle-free and start your new life in London without any worries. 

Top Locations to Book Short-Term Rentals in London 

There are several convenient locations in London to book short-term rentals. Ultimately, the choice depends on where your workplace is, what you want to find nearby in terms of amenities, recreational zones, tourist landmarks, etc. and of course, your budget.

Still, there are several popular locations to find the best serviced apartments in the city and enjoy ample convenience simultaneously.

Here’s a closer look at the same below: 

• Central Locations, Dining, Theatre & Culture- You can consider Covent Garden for staying in the heart of the city’s iconic West End. You’ll also enjoy the best dining, shopping and theatrical experiences here. 
• Luxury and High-End Living- Kensington, Mayfair and Chelsea are the high-end choices for anyone who’s after luxury living. You’ll fall in love with the grand white stucco homes, easy access to top museums and the lush green Hyde Park and the general posh atmosphere. 
• Business and Contemporary Convenience- In this category, there’s no matching Canary Wharf, especially if you work in finance and want to stay in sleek apartments. Paddington is another option if you’re more inclined towards good connectivity. 
• Urban and Trendy Ambience- You can consider Shoreditch and Soho in this category, since they’re ideal for exploring the premier nightlife, dining and creative circuits of London. These areas give you a glimpse into the city’s distinctive urban vibe. 
• Gorgeous River Views- You can consider the South Bank for its walkability and excellent vantage spots for viewing landmarks like the Tate Modern, London Eye and Shakespeare’s Globe. 
• Family-Friendly Ambience and Tranquil Luxury- Little Venice and St John’s Wood (near Regents Park) are good choices if you want high-end and prestigious living with a residential and family-oriented community. It will also help you stay just outside the bustling heart of the city.

That's all.